Track Selection for Light Rail Transit (LRT) Projects by Applying Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Decision-Making Method — Case Study: Evaluation of Addis Ababa Light Rail Transit (AALRT) Project's Track Selection

Abstract

Track selection for a certain LRT project is difficult and complex in view of many factors to be considered. Many alternatives of tracks can be considered for a certain project, and it needs very detailed cost and multi-factors analysis work which is time and budget consuming. This paper presents one demonstration of LTR track selection using AHP decision making method from different track alternatives .As an example, the evaluation of appropriateness of the under construction AALRT track selection was presented. For the evaluation, five tracks which are finally clustered in to three major alternatives: ballasted track, prefabricated slab/ floating ladder track and Green tracks, based on some AHP guidelines and facts behind their similarities and features are considered. After detailed analysis for AALRT track selection evaluation by applying basic AHP principles, Green tracks is found the best choice. Depending on the output of evaluation for the AALRT project (ballasted track) track selection, necessary suggestions are made for future extension and new construction of LRT projects in that City.